Did you know that spending just a few minutes a day outdoors can boost both your physical and mental health? Spending a day with your favorite outdoor activities can make you feel like a brand new you!
If you’re interested in making more time for the great outdoors, there are a few pieces of outdoor equipment that are absolute must-haves. Whether you’re a hiker, biker, camper, or fisherman, there are certain things that every outdoor enthusiast should own.
Read on to learn the essentials that you need to bring on your next adventure.
Hydration Gear
One of the most important things to have on your person when you’re enjoying the great outdoors is water. In the span of a normal day, you should be drinking at least 0.5 ounces of water per pound of your body weight. This number increases with physical activity, as you lose water through sweat.
Your hydration gear can be a water bottle, an expandable bladder, or a hydration pack. As long as you have some method of carrying water with you during your family outdoor activities, you’re good to go.
Quality Shoes
If you’ve been wearing the same old, worn down pair of tennis shoes that you use when mowing the lawn during your hiking or biking trips, you’re making a huge mistake. You might not think your shoes make a difference, but you’ll be amazed how much better you feel when you explore wearing a quality pair of shoes.
Now, as with any outdoor fitness equipment, the specific type of shoe you need depends on your preferred activity. Hikers need sturdy hiking boots, runners need flexible sneakers, fishermen can benefit from a pair of the best fishing shoes.
Don’t rush into your shoe purchase. Take your time, do your research, and if at all possible, try potential shoes on in person before buying them.
Illumination Gear
Regardless of the type of outdoor activities you enjoy, some form of illumination gear should be at the top of your outdoor sports equipment list. At some point, you’re going to stay out a bit longer than you intended, and you never want to get caught in the dark without a light source.
At a minimum, you should have a headlamp or a flashlight, as well as an extra set of batteries. Look for illumination gear that uses LED bulbs, as they’ll help to extend the life of your light.
First Aid Supplies
Any outdoor activity comes with a certain level of risk. Minor cuts and abrasions are bound to happen, no matter which activity you’re participating in. When this happens, it’s important to have first aid supplies on hand.
A pocket-sized kit that includes basics such as disinfectant, bandages, and gauze is all you need for most activities. However, keep in mind that having a few extras, like a sting kill pen and an ace bandage is never a bad idea.
Get More Out of Your Time Outside With This Outdoor Equipment
You don’t have to spend a fortune on outdoor equipment to enjoy your time outdoors. And while there are certain outdoor activities that require more of an investment in others, the few items on this list are all you need to get started.
Looking for more tips and tricks for getting the most out of the great outdoors? Be sure to check out our blog!
